Jamming with Pyne: Commercialising research and creating jobs

The Hon Christopher Pyne MP Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science has jumped into UniJam this lunchtime with some interesting comments regarding the National Innovation and Science Agenda, opportunities for greater commercialisation of research in South Australia, and the importance of risk-taking.

Minister Pyne called out The Future Industries Institute in particular, describing it as a “strength” for UniSA, with FII Director, Professor Emily Hilder responding to the comments.

“At FII, we've just this morning been discussing how we can empower our young researchers to work more closely with industry, to develop more entrepreneurial skills and not be afraid to take risks,” Prof Hilder says.

“Programs that offer easy staff mobility between universities and business are key to building lasting relationships.

“This is a model we're committed to in the Future Industries Institute, where many of our project teams include staff from both university and industry. We're also big fans of our PhD students spending time on placement in industry.”

Minister Pyne highlighted a few areas where he thought industry collaboration could be developed in future.

“We are wanting to ensure we don't just do great research but that it is commercialised here creating jobs and investment in our state,” Minister Pyne says.

“SA is strong in mining, agriculture and manufacturing. Particularly high tech, advanced manufacturing. The naval shipbuilding industry that I have had a large part in expanding is ripe for UniSA to take advantage of and provides us with industry collaborators.

“Yours is a vibrant university atmosphere and you are well placed to capitalise with your presence at Mawson Lakes.”